I started back at work this last week. Boy was that tough. When I was growing up, I always thought there was no way I could be a stay-at-home mom. I always figured I'd just go crazy being at home all day. But now that Zoë is here, I realize how crazy I was to think that. Even though I leave for work while Zoë is still fast asleep and get home in the early afternoon, I still can't help but wish I were at home with her every second of the day. Not to mention, the chores have gotten much more difficult to keep up with as well (when you factor in the fact that I need sleep to function).

I've been desperately searching for a job with a graveyard shift so that I can be at home with Zoë during the day and still continue to work. Of course, the job market isn't too great out there, so it's been a bit of a challenge. But persistence is key, right?

I'd have to say the worst part about returning to work is that I have to pump. I know there's some mothers out there who probably can't wait to share the feeding duties with someone else, but I LOVE that special time with Zoë. Don't get me wrong....the first couple of weeks, I was DYING to share the duties, but now, it's so relaxing and just the two of us.

Pumping is so much WORK! I've got to clean and sterilize all the parts for the pump (after every use), then I have to clean and sanitize the bottles. Plus, I have to put on a special bra so I can at least have my hands free while pumping. The worst thing, I think, is that it's a reminder that I don't get to be with Zoë like I normally would.

As you can tell, I'm totally stoked to be back at work...not. But, we gotta pay the bills, right?